Diarrhoea and vomiting
- have very dark-coloured urine or have not had a pee in more than 8 hours
- have black or tarry poo and not taking iron tablets, go to A&E immediately
- are unable to keep food or fluids down for 24 hours
- feel very weak, dizzy or faint when standing up
- have tummy (abdominal) pain
- have a high temperature
- vomit blood
- have lost weight
Contact for your local maternity service
East and North Hertfordshire (The Lister Hospital): 01438 284 124
West Essex (The Princess Alexandra Hospital): 01279 827 286
South and West Hertfordshire (Watford General Hospital): 01923 217 343
Diarrhoea and vomiting in pregnancy
Diarrhoea and vomiting is not usually pregnancy related and is most commonly caused by gastroenteritis (a tummy bug). During bouts of sickness and/ or diarrhoea it is important to remain hydrated. If you are vomiting, try to take sips of water (little and often) rather than large volumes in one go.
Diarrhoea usually last 5-7 days and vomiting usually lasts 1-2 days.
Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, often known as morning sickness, is very common in early pregnancy. It can affect you anytime during the day or night, and usually settles by 16-20 weeks. Some women suffer with severe sickness during pregnancy, this is called hyperemesis gravidarum and may require treatment from your GP.
